Overview of Domestic Violence

Impact of the O.J. Simpson Case
on Domestic Violence Law in California

Edward N. Ajlouny
San Jose Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer

The widely publicized trial of O.J. Simpson for the 1994 murder of Nicole Brown Simpson, his former wife, and her friend had a big impact on domestic violence laws in the United States, especially in California. Because of that case, even minor violence is now taken seriously by the authorities. Anyone facing charges for domestic violence should seek the assistance of an experienced domestic violence defense lawyer.

In Santa Clara County, for example, if there is a complaint or 911 call for domestic violence, somebody (the primary aggressor) will be arrested. Under California SB (Senate Bill) 591, law enforcement agencies are required to "encourage" the police to make arrests in domestic violence cases.

Similarly, many California district attorneys have embraced "no drop" prosecution policies that greatly minimize-if not entirely eliminate-the possibility of dropping charges, even when the alleged victim wants the charges to be dropped.

Boom in Restraining Orders

Another trend in California domestic violence cases is a boom in the issuing of protective restraining orders. It is not uncommon for one party in a divorce to seek a protection order and then use it as a kind of weapon against the other party in child custody proceedings.

Under California AB (Assembly Bill) 840, such protective restraining orders can disqualify the restrained parent from obtaining joint custody of his or her children after a divorce.

If you are facing charges for domestic violence or if you need an attorney experienced with emergency protective order litigation, e-mail or call the law office of Edward Ajlouny today.

I know how to help you through the system.

Consequences Can Be Significant

Depending on the severity of the alleged incident, the consequences-even for first-time offenders-can be significant, particularly for anyone whose employment or immigration status may be affected.

I am very skilled at these types of cases. Half of my practice is focused on defending people who are facing charges in the San Francisco Bay Area for domestic violence or battery.

Edward N. Ajlouny
Attorney at Law
111 West St. John Street, Suite 555
San Jose, CA 95113
(408) 297-6425
(408) 298-4551 fax
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